Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter Review

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter Made a Bold First Impression

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter promises to bring a symphony of throaty grunts and estrus cries to the hunter’s arsenal. This dual-reed call, designed for both mule deer and blacktail, piqued my interest with its long-range calling capability and inhale-exhale operation. For years, I’ve relied on separate calls for different vocalizations, a cumbersome process I hoped this single unit could simplify.

My quest for a versatile, user-friendly deer call led me to the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter. I was tired of juggling multiple calls in the field, fumbling for the right sound at critical moments. The promise of producing both grunts and estrus cries with a simple breath seemed like a game-changer.

Upon unboxing, the call felt lightweight and compact, constructed of what seemed to be a durable plastic. The built-in compass was a nice touch, adding an extra layer of utility for navigation. It immediately struck me as a tool built with portability in mind.

Compared to my collection of individual calls from Primos and Flextone, the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter seemed less specialized, but potentially more convenient. These other calls are often tailored to specific deer vocalizations, while this promised broader functionality in a single package. I hoped the trade-off wouldn’t compromise sound quality.

My initial reaction was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. The simplicity of the design intrigued me, but I reserved judgment until I could test its effectiveness in the field. The price point of $14.49 also added to the intrigue, making it a low-risk investment with potentially high rewards.

Real-World Testing: Putting Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter to the Test

First Use Experience

I put the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter to the test during a late-season mule deer hunt in the high country of Colorado. The weather was harsh, with biting winds and temperatures hovering around freezing. The terrain was a mix of open meadows and dense pine forests.

The call’s performance in cold weather was surprisingly good, with no issues of reed freeze-up. However, achieving the desired sound required a specific lung capacity and diaphragm control; the inhale-exhale operation proved more challenging than advertised. The sound carried reasonably well across the open meadows, but seemed somewhat muffled in the denser timber.

It took some practice to produce realistic grunts and estrus cries. The exhale sound was easier to master, producing a convincing throaty grunt. The inhale sound, intended for estrus cries, was more difficult to control and often resulted in a higher-pitched, less convincing bleat.

The first time using the call in a real hunting scenario, I spooked a young buck. He bolted immediately after my attempt at an estrus bleat, revealing that I needed to refine the technique. This first encounter made me question the “simply inhale and exhale” claim.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of practice and use during multiple hunts, the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter held up surprisingly well. There were no signs of cracking or damage to the plastic housing, despite being subjected to rugged terrain and fluctuating temperatures. The lanyard attachment point remained secure, and the compass continued to function accurately.

Cleaning the call was simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water and a gentle scrubbing with a soft brush. The reeds remained relatively free of moisture buildup. Overt time, the tone did seem to soften, potentially indicating that the reeds were becoming worn.

Compared to my high-end diaphragm calls, the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter didn’t quite match the realism or nuance of sound. However, it proved more durable and less susceptible to freezing than some of my more delicate reed calls. It is a solid choice for a beginner.

Breaking Down the Features of Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter

Specifications

• The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter utilizes a dual-reed assembly, designed for both inhale and exhale operation. This feature allows the user to produce both grunts and estrus cries from a single call. This reduces the amount of gear needed in the field.

• The call is designed for long-range calling, aiming to attract deer from a distance. The user can reach deer that may not be visible. This is especially useful in open terrain.

• The call includes a built-in compass, adding a navigational tool. It can be useful if one happens to lose their handheld GPS. It provides a backup navigation option.

Performance & Functionality

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter performs adequately for its price point. The exhale grunt is relatively easy to reproduce and carries well in open areas. However, mastering the inhale estrus cry requires practice and consistent breath control.

The strength of this call lies in its simplicity and portability. It’s a lightweight, all-in-one solution for hunters who want to minimize their gear. The main weakness is the somewhat artificial sound quality, particularly the estrus cry, compared to higher-end diaphragm calls. It only meets expectations at the price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter features a simple, functional design. The lightweight plastic construction makes it easy to carry, while the lanyard attachment point ensures it stays accessible. It is built for simple use.

The call is generally user-friendly, although mastering the inhale-exhale technique takes some practice. There is no significant learning curve beyond mastering the inhale sound. Overall, it feels solid for the price point.

Durability & Maintenance

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter seems reasonably durable for its price. The plastic housing can withstand moderate abuse, and the compass is protected within the call body. Cleaning is simple and straightforward, contributing to its longevity.

With proper care, the call should last for several seasons. Reed replacement might be necessary over time, although specific replacement reeds for this model may be difficult to source. Proper storage will enhance the product’s lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter comes with a basic lanyard. There are no other included accessories.

There are limited customization options for this call. Unlike some higher-end calls with adjustable reeds or tone chambers, the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter is a fixed-configuration product. Most users will find it adequate as is.

Pros and Cons of Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter

Who Should Buy Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter?

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter is perfect for beginner hunters who want a simple, affordable call that covers basic deer vocalizations. It’s also a good choice for experienced hunters looking for a lightweight backup call. It is also good for anyone looking for an all-in-one option that simplifies their gear load.

This product is not ideal for seasoned hunters who demand the most realistic and nuanced sounds possible. It may also disappoint hunters who prefer specialized calls for specific vocalizations. Those with experience may want to pass on it.

Must-have accessories: A lanyard is included. Other suggested items could include a small cleaning brush and a protective case.

Conclusion on Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter

The Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter offers a decent value proposition for its price. While it doesn’t deliver the most realistic deer vocalizations, it provides a functional and durable option for beginner hunters. It’s a great tool for beginners to learn.

The $14.49 price point is certainly justified. It is a low-risk investment for those looking to experiment with deer calling.

I would recommend the Power Mule Deer &blacktail Grunter as a starter call or a backup option. Don’t expect perfection, but appreciate the simplicity and portability it offers. Give it a shot, practice your technique, and you might just call in that buck of a lifetime!